Tottenham spent over £100m on new arrivals last summer without much success and Levy may want to see the likes of Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela either sold or better utilised before agreeing to new arrivals.

And that has strengthened Liverpool's negotiating position with talks ongoing despite the reportedly 'take-it-or-leave-it' nature of yesterday's bid.

Indeed, Lallana could be confirmed as a Liverpool player in the next few days.

If that transpires Lallana would follow Rickie Lambert to Liverpool, with the striker's £4m move expected to be confirmed tomorrow.

Tottenham and Liverpool could yet battle over Saints defender Dejan Lovren with the Croatian still thought to be a target for both clubs.